As a frequent traveler, you must have heard about United Airlines, which is a well-known American airline. If you are planning to fly overseas with United Airlines, it is essential to know about the baggage policy, especially the excess baggage charges. In this article, we will explain United Airlines' excess baggage charges for overseas flights and how to avoid them.

United Airlines Carry-On Baggage Weight

United Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. The maximum weight of the carry-on bag should be 7 kg, and the maximum size should be 22 x 35 x 56 cm (including wheels and handles). The personal item should fit under the seat in front of you, and the maximum size should be 22 x 25 x 43 cm. If your carry-on bag exceeds the size or weight limit, you will have to check it in, which may result in additional charges.

United Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance

United Airlines Carry On Baggage Weight Allowance varies depending on the route, fare class, and frequent flyer status. For most international flights, the standard baggage allowance is two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs). However, if you are traveling to/from Brazil, the maximum weight of each bag is 32 kg (70 lbs).

If you are a United Airlines MileagePlus Premier member or Star Alliance Gold member, you may be entitled to additional baggage allowances. For example, as a Premier Silver member, you can check one extra bag for free, while as a Premier 1K member, you can check up to three extra bags for free.

United Airlines Excess Baggage Charges

If you exceed the checked baggage allowance, you will have to pay excess baggage charges. The excess baggage charges for United Airlines' overseas flights depend on the destination and the number of bags. Generally, the excess baggage charges range from $100 to $200 per bag, depending on the destination. For example, if you are flying from the United States to Europe, the excess baggage charge for the first bag is $100, and for the second bag, it is $200. However, if you are flying from the United States to South America, the excess baggage charge for the first bag is $150, and for the second bag, it is $200.

It is essential to note that if your bag exceeds the weight limit, you may have to pay both the excess baggage charge and the overweight baggage charge. The overweight baggage charge varies depending on the destination and the weight of the bag. For example, if you are flying from the United States to Europe, the overweight baggage charge for a bag weighing between 23 and 32 kg is $100, while for a bag weighing between 32 and 45 kg, it is $200.

Tips to Avoid Excess Baggage Charges

Here are some tips that can help you avoid excess baggage charges when flying with United Airlines:

1. Pack Light: The easiest way to avoid excess baggage charges is to pack light. Make a list of what you need to bring and stick to it. Pack only the essentials and avoid bringing items that you can easily buy at your destination.
2. Use a Luggage Scale: Invest in a luggage scale to weigh your bags before you leave for the airport. This will give you an idea of how much your bags weigh, and you can remove items if necessary.
3. Check the Baggage Allowance: Make sure you know your baggage allowance before you pack. If you are unsure, check United Airlines' website or contact their customer service.
4. Upgrade Your Fare Class: If you know you will be carrying extra bags, consider upgrading your fare class. This may give you a higher baggage allowance, which can